Low toric soft contact lens acceptance study.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Optometry
• Vision Science

Background:

• Astigmatism management often involves specialized contact lenses.
• Toric contact lenses correct astigmatism, while spherical lenses offer standard correction.
• Evaluating visual performance in low astigmats is crucial for lens selection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the visual performance of custom toric contact lenses (TL) versus off-the-shelf spherical lenses (SL).
• To assess both objective and subjective visual outcomes in subjects with low astigmatism.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-three soft contact lens wearers with low astigmatism (0.50-1.00DC) were enrolled.
• Lenses fitted included Air Optix Aqua (spherical) and Intelliwave toric lenses.
• Visual performance was tested using comprehensive objective and subjective evaluations.

Main Results:

• High contrast distance visual acuity (HCDVA) was better with spectacles than SL in the morning and afternoon.
• HCDVA was significantly better with TL compared to SL in the afternoon.
• Low contrast distance visual acuity (LCDVA) was better with spectacles than SL.
• No clinically significant differences in visual acuity or subjective ratings were found between SL and TL.

Conclusions:

• No clinically significant difference in visual performance exists between spherical and toric soft contact lenses for individuals with low astigmatism.
• Both lens types provide comparable visual outcomes in this patient group.